An Arab-American woman sees signs of hope.

January 12, 2009

Dear Michelle Obama

I get emails almost daily from the Obama campaign, inviting me to participate in the inaugural festivities, and oh by the way, donate some money. Today Mrs. Obama wrote to me - my inbox showed an email from Michelle. I replied the following, knowing that she won't read it and nobody else will either:

Dear Michelle:

I don't feel like celebrating much while all those children are dying in Gaza. What do you tell your daughters about it? Have they asked Barack if he's going to stop it?

I haven't told my kids what's happening yet. I don't want them to know that Barack is standing aside silently while Israel kills all those civilians, including children, in Gaza.

If your daughters don't ask about it now, they will, one day. What will he say? How will he look them in the eye?

Terrific letter. I can only hope that the Obamas read it. They seem like decent folks, but the President-elect doesn't strike me as someone who is going to lead us in an unpopular direction. If there was ever a letter that might shame him into doing such a thing, this is it.

Cookbooks

Deborah Madison: Vegetarian Cooking for EveryoneIndispensable - I use it all the time, and give it as presents to brides, young people starting out, etc. Not for vegetarians only - hence the title - a great resource for anybody wanting delicious recipes for vegetables, grains and legumes. Great sauces and salads, too.